The U.S. housing market is seeing a large gap between the number of home sellers and buyers, a situation not seen since 2013. This imbalance is mainly due to high home prices and increased costs, causing many buyers to stay away. Experts note that while sellers outnumber buyers, the market is not overwhelmed with too many homes for sale.
Key Facts
There are 529,770 more home sellers than buyers in the United States, according to Redfin.
This gap is the largest since 2013, with a reported 47.1% more sellers than buyers.
The median home sale price is around $428,000, which is too high for many potential buyers.
Increased costs, such as insurance and property taxes, are making homeownership more expensive.
Some homeowners are selling due to affordability issues, while investors aim to sell at peak prices.
The situation is considered a "demand collapse" rather than a "supply boom."
Current homeowners with low mortgage rates are reluctant to sell, leading to fewer home transactions.
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Two men have been charged with conspiracy to defraud after the failure of a pre-paid funeral company, Safe Hands Plans Ltd, which left around 46,000 customers financially impacted. The charges are part of an investigation by the Serious Fraud Office. The collapse occurred before new regulations for pre-paid funeral providers took effect.
Key Facts
The company involved, Safe Hands Plans Ltd, collapsed in 2022.
About 46,000 customers lost money due to the company's failure.
The Serious Fraud Office has charged Richard Wells and Neil Debenham with conspiracy to defraud.
Richard Wells was the former director of SHP Capital Holdings Ltd, the parent company.
Neil Debenham was referred to as a senior executive.
The charged individuals are scheduled to appear in court on 5 February.
Since July 2022, pre-paid funeral services need regulatory approval from the Financial Conduct Authority.
Safe Hands was one of many companies operating without regulation before these new rules.
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President Trump decided not to impose tariffs on eight European allies over Greenland, which led to a stock market rally. Some investors believe Trump's policies are often just talk, causing them to price in a less aggressive stance. However, relying on the market to predict or influence Trump's decisions might be challenging.
Key Facts
President Trump dropped plans to impose tariffs on eight European allies over Greenland.
The stock market rallied after Trump's decision, with the S&P 500 rising by 1.2%.
Investors often assume 70% of Trump's policies are not very serious.
Some investors think the market can make Trump change his economic policies.
Stocks fell earlier in the week due to global bond selloffs and concerns about tariffs.
Expert opinions suggest the market is not good at predicting geopolitical risks.
Confidence in a quick policy change from Trump is not always realistic.
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Newsweek released its 2026 ranking of the Most Trusted Brands in the U.S. The list, developed with BrandSpark, highlights brands trusted by consumers in various categories like beauty, household products, and technology. The rankings are based on a survey of over 35,000 U.S. shoppers.
Key Facts
Newsweek partnered with BrandSpark to release the 2026 Most Trusted Brands ranking.
The survey included over 35,000 U.S. consumers and covered 359 product categories.
139 new categories were added in 2026, including meditation apps and AI platforms.
Trusted brands include Bic for disposable lighters, Nutella for hazelnut spread, and Quaker for oatmeal.
Calm ranked No. 1 in the new meditation app category; Duolingo was recognized in language learning apps.
ChatGPT was the most trusted AI platform among younger users, while older users preferred Google Gemini.
Circle K, a convenience store chain, debuted on the list, taking the No. 2 spot in its category.
The study aims to help consumers make smarter buying decisions by assessing brand trust.
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UK government borrowing decreased by over a third in December, thanks to increased tax revenue surpassing spending. Borrowing was £11.6 billion, which is £7.1 billion less than the previous December. Despite the drop, borrowing remains relatively high historically.
Key Facts
Government borrowing in December was £11.6 billion.
This figure is 38% lower than in December of the previous year.
The drop in borrowing is due to an increase in tax income compared to spending.
Taxes rose by 8.9%, or £7.7 billion, compared to December 2024.
Income tax, corporation tax, VAT, and National Insurance contributions saw increases.
Borrowing for the financial year up to December totaled £140.4 billion.
Borrowing remains higher than in December 2023 when it was £8.1 billion.
The UK government aims to reduce borrowing and stabilize the economy further.
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Delta Air Lines is allowing passengers to change their travel plans for free due to a major winter storm expected to affect large parts of the United States. The storm could cause travel disruptions from Friday through Monday and may lead to flight cancellations and delays.
Key Facts
Delta Air Lines is offering free flight changes for its passengers because of a winter storm.
The National Weather Service says the storm will bring snow, sleet, and freezing rain, potentially affecting travel.
Areas affected include parts of Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas, Alabama, Tennessee, and Missouri.
The storm may reach the East Coast by the weekend, with the potential to impact New England on Monday.
Forecasters warn of "life-threatening" conditions and the chance of widespread power outages.
Delta advises its customers to check their flight status regularly through the airline’s website or mobile app.
Delta promises to rebook passengers on the next available flight if theirs is canceled.
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Lactalis, a French dairy company, is recalling batches of its baby formula in France and other countries due to worries about contamination with a toxin. This follows similar recalls by Nestle, which has also removed baby formula from shelves in several countries because of potential toxin presence. Recalls are happening due to a substance called cereulide, which can make people sick.
Key Facts
Lactalis is recalling six batches of Picot infant milk due to cereulide contamination.
The recall affects multiple countries, including France, Australia, and China.
Cereulide can cause symptoms like diarrhea and vomiting.
The French authorities have not reported any illnesses from these products.
Nestle and Danone have also recalled baby formulas recently due to similar concerns.
The industry has faced multiple recalls, including one involving Nestle, linked to the potential presence of cereulide.
An investigation in France is ongoing after the death of a baby who consumed a recalled product, but no direct link has been found.
In 2018, Lactalis was involved in a major salmonella scare that affected millions of baby formula tins globally.
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Superfoods, Inc. recalled its "Live it Up Super Greens" supplements due to potential Salmonella contamination, which has been linked to 12 hospitalizations. The recall affects products sold nationwide in the United States and parts of the United Kingdom, and consumers are advised to dispose of the affected products and request a refund.
Key Facts
Superfoods, Inc. recalled the "Live it Up Super Greens" due to possible Salmonella contamination.
The contamination is reportedly linked to 12 hospitalizations in the U.S.
Salmonella can cause serious health problems like fever, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
The recalled products include both Original and Wild Berry flavors, sold in pouches and stick packs.
Affected lot codes begin with "A" or "3" and have expiration dates from 08/2026 to 01/2028.
The products were sold online in the U.S., including Puerto Rico and Guam, and the U.K.
Consumers should check lot codes and email the company for a refund if they have the recalled products.
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A luxury wellness program created in the Western U.S. is expanding to Mexico's Baja California Peninsula. Sensei, a wellness brand, now offers its Optimal Wellbeing and Rest & Reset programs at the Ritz-Carlton property in Los Cabos. These programs use technology, such as wearable devices, to help guests improve their lifestyle and manage stress.
Key Facts
Sensei is expanding its wellness programs to the Ritz-Carlton Zadún Los Cabos in Baja California Peninsula, Mexico.
The programs offered are the Optimal Wellbeing Program and Rest & Reset Program.
These programs began in response to lifestyle disruptions from the pandemic.
The Optimal Wellbeing Program aims to help guests reset habits and enhance their wellbeing.
The Rest & Reset Program focuses on managing stress and improving sleep.
Technology like WHOOP devices is used to gather data and personalize guest plans.
Guests take part in wellness classes, nutrition coaching, and receive post-stay support through an online platform.
Reservations are currently open for these wellness programs.
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Macy's Inc. announced it will close a distribution center in Connecticut and lay off over 1,000 employees as part of efforts to update its supply chain. This decision is part of a broader strategy to modernize operations and improve customer service. The layoffs will begin in mid-March 2026 and continue through August.
Key Facts
Macy's is closing a fulfillment and distribution center in Connecticut.
Over 1,000 employees will be laid off due to these closures.
The company aims to modernize its supply chain and make operations simpler.
Employees were informed about layoffs in mid-January.
Macy's currently operates 424 stores, 21 'Small Format' locations, and 5 off-price 'Backstage' stores.
Earlier in January, Macy's announced closures of 14 underperforming U.S. stores.
Affected employees will receive details on benefits and severance, with some offered transfers to other locations.
The layoffs will start in March and continue through August, with some staff staying until April for transitional tasks.
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President Donald Trump proposed capping credit card interest rates at 10% for one year. Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, argued this plan could create economic problems and reduce credit availability for most Americans. Critics emphasize that many businesses and consumers might struggle if the cap is implemented.
Key Facts
President Trump suggested limiting credit card interest rates to 10% from January 20 for one year.
JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon warned that this proposal could lead to economic problems.
Dimon said that capping rates could reduce credit access for 80% of Americans.
The plan has not been implemented yet and details about enforcement are unclear.
Trump reiterated the proposal on January 13 via social media.
Major banks and associations argue that the cap could harm consumers and businesses.
The current average interest rate for credit cards in the U.S. is around 20%.
Trump's proposal has caused some uncertainty in the stock market for credit card companies.
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Slovakia has become a major player in car manufacturing, producing nearly a million cars a year, which is the highest per capita in the world. Major car companies like Kia, Volkswagen, Stellantis, and Jaguar Land Rover produce vehicles there. Slovakia's low labor costs and high productivity have attracted these manufacturers.
Key Facts
Kia's plant in Zilina, Slovakia, produces up to 350,000 cars every year.
Major car companies, including Volkswagen, Stellantis, and Jaguar Land Rover, manufacture cars in Slovakia.
Slovakia produces almost one million cars annually, which is the highest per person worldwide.
Kia's factory represents a €2.5 billion investment and is a significant part of its European operations.
Employees at Kia's plant typically earn higher than Slovakia's national average salary.
The country's labor costs are lower compared to Western Europe, but productivity is high.
Foreign investments in Slovakia's car industry began after the fall of communism and have continued due to favorable economic conditions.
Slovakia's automotive industry shifted significantly post-1989, transforming into a robust sector with foreign investments.
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JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon opposed President Trump's proposal to cap credit card interest rates at 10 percent, calling it an economic mistake. The proposed cap, intended to help save borrowers money, might restrict credit availability and impact rewards for many cardholders. The plan has found some bipartisan support, but faces challenges in Congress.
Key Facts
President Trump proposed capping credit card interest rates at 10 percent for a year.
Jamie Dimon, CEO of JPMorgan Chase, argues this cap would limit credit access for 80 percent of Americans.
A banking industry group suggests that the cap could cause credit card closures for those with credit scores below 740.
The cap might save borrowers about $100 billion a year according to a 2025 report.
Progressive Senator Elizabeth Warren and President Trump discussed possibly working together on the proposal.
Senator Bernie Sanders has a similar bill that suggests a 10 percent cap until 2031.
Polls show mixed public approval of President Trump's economic policies, with some disapproval.
The proposal faces significant political challenges in Congress.
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President Donald Trump is criticized by economist Peter Schiff for trying to prevent the U.S. housing market bubble from bursting. Schiff argues that sustaining the bubble could lead to worse economic damage. Trump spoke about his housing policy at the World Economic Forum, emphasizing his support for lower interest rates while avoiding actions that could lower home values.
Key Facts
President Trump said his goal is to prevent the housing market bubble in the U.S. from bursting.
Economist Peter Schiff argues that trying to sustain a bubble can cause more damage when it eventually bursts.
The median home sale price in the U.S. is about $428,000, making homeownership unaffordable for many.
Trump spoke at the World Economic Forum in Davos, advocating for lower interest rates.
Schiff has a history of predicting economic events, including the 2008 recession.
Schiff predicts a potential 20-30% drop in housing prices nationwide.
Michael Ryan, a finance expert, warned that keeping prices high can lead to a bigger correction.
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President Donald Trump, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland, told business leaders that his actions have made them wealthier. This event took place as U.S. Republicans urge him to address cost-of-living issues in America.
Key Facts
President Trump addressed business executives at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
He claimed that his policies have made these executives much richer.
The audience consisted of wealthy individuals and business leaders.
The World Economic Forum is an annual event where global leaders discuss economic and social issues.
In the U.S., Republicans are encouraging President Trump to focus on making living costs more affordable.
Rising prices are a concern for many Americans, especially with upcoming midterm elections.
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A home owned by the Trump Organization near President Donald Trump's Mar-a-Lago resort is available for rent at $122,500 per month. Located in Palm Beach, Florida, the property highlights the high demand for real estate in the area due to its proximity to the resort and other wealthy neighbors.
Key Facts
The home is owned by the Trump Organization and is in Palm Beach, Florida.
It is listed for rent at $122,500 per month, amounting to $1.47 million annually.
The property is adjacent to Mar-a-Lago and includes features like mahogany wood floors, a private pool, and beach access.
Palm Beach's strong real estate market partly drives up the high rental price.
Renting this home does not include membership to Mar-a-Lago or Trump International Golf Club.
There is increased property value and rent prices due to high demand and limited options near Mar-a-Lago.
Proximity to the area is seen as a desirable factor for its connection to influential individuals.
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The article discusses the issue of dollar debasement and inflation in the United States, highlighting the persistent rise in living costs and the government's financial challenges. It suggests that the private sector, with the help of technology, might find solutions to protect money's value as traditional government methods struggle. The article refers to historical instances where technology has successfully transformed previously rigid systems.
Key Facts
Inflation has led to a noticeable increase in the cost of groceries, rent, and insurance, while savings have lost value.
The U.S. government is experiencing challenges with widening deficits and difficulties in raising taxes or cutting spending.
The term "fiscal dominance" refers to the priority given to political survival over maintaining stable prices.
The detachment of the U.S. dollar from gold resulted in increased money printing and competition between debt interest payments and essential state spending.
The trade deficit persists because other countries sell cheaper goods to the U.S. to obtain dollars.
Technology has historically changed industries, such as private companies entering space travel, and could potentially address monetary issues.
Current methods to protect against currency debasement, like real estate and commodities, were not explicitly designed for this purpose.
Bitcoin's role as a stable asset is theoretical and was not its original design intention.
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A major trade deal between the U.S. and the EU has been put on hold after President Trump threatened tariffs related to Greenland. European lawmakers paused the agreement, which was set to cancel tariffs on U.S. industrial goods. The situation increases tension between the trading partners.
Key Facts
European lawmakers stopped approval of a trade deal with the U.S. due to threats from President Trump about tariffs linked to Greenland.
The deal would have removed tariffs on all U.S. industrial goods.
Trump threatened a 10% tariff on several European countries starting February 1, increasing to 25% on June 1.
This move by Trump aimed to push for negotiations related to the purchase of Greenland.
Bernd Lange, a key European lawmaker, emphasized that the decision supports Denmark and Greenland's sovereignty.
The trade deal, known as the Turnberry Deal, intended to cap tariffs on U.S. imports from the EU at 15% and eliminate tariffs on some items.
The EU-U.S. economic relationship was valued at about $1.5 trillion in goods and services annually.
This decision shows the EU’s commitment to stability and its allies in response to perceived threats.
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Volvo introduced the EX60, a new electric SUV designed for the U.S. market, aimed at meeting consumers' expectations on range, charging speed, and price. Despite a drop in electric vehicle (EV) sales in late 2025, overall EV sales in the U.S. remained strong, and Volvo's electric vehicle sales grew significantly. Volvo plans for most of its vehicle sales to be electric or hybrid by 2030.
Key Facts
Volvo launched the EX60, a new electric SUV, in the U.S.
U.S. sales of electric vehicles dropped in the fourth quarter of 2025.
2025 was the second-best year for EV sales in the U.S.
Volvo's electric vehicle sales in the U.S. grew by 91% in 2025 compared to the previous year.
The new EX60 SUV can travel up to 400 miles on a single charge and adds 173 miles in 10 minutes of charging.
The EX60 is priced around $60,000, making it competitive with plug-in hybrids.
Volvo's goal is to have 90-100% of its sales be electrified vehicles, including plug-in hybrids and full electrics, by 2030.
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Five Guys has opened a new flagship restaurant in Las Vegas at The Venetian Resort, which is unique because it includes a walk-up bar and offers an all-day breakfast menu. The restaurant is designed to reflect the Las Vegas atmosphere and stays open from 8 a.m. to 4 a.m. every day.
Key Facts
The new Five Guys restaurant is located at the Grand Canal Shoppes in The Venetian Resort, Las Vegas.
It features a full walk-up bar and an all-day breakfast menu, which are new for Five Guys.
The restaurant is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 a.m.
Traditional menu items like customizable burgers and milkshakes are still available.
The interior design includes Las Vegas-themed decorations like murals and neon signs.
There is a glass-walled potato prep room where guests can see how fries are made.
The restaurant opening coincides with the 40th anniversary of Five Guys.
A special celebration event is planned to launch the new features.
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